As I have written previously, the original word translated here as ‘believe’ means far more than just an intellectual belief in something as fact. The original word also includes the element of trust. Therefore, the writer of Hebrews is saying that in order to draw near to God, one must believe that God exists and out of that belief, place their trust in Him.

We are to believe that God rewards those who seek Him. Examples are given later in this chapter of men and women of great faith in the Old Testament who did great things for God because of the reward that awaited them.

From 1865 to 1953, China Inland Mission (CIM), the mission agency started by Dr. Hudson Taylor, had missionaries serving all over China. In spite of many difficult trials including the Boxer rebellion, multiple wars and the founding of the Communist government, CIM grew to become one of the largest mission agencies in China, laying the foundation for the current revival of the church in China. These dedicated men and women who suffered many sacrifices were motivated by the reward that lay before them.

They are now enjoying that reward.

When sacrifice is required, those with faith will move forward because they trust and believe that God will eventually reward them for that sacrifice.

There are many ways we can be asked to make sacrifices in the practice of medicine. It might be traveling to a developing country to practice either short-term or long-term. It might be taking a cut in pay in order to spend more time in volunteer work. It might be taking a public stand on an unpopular ethical issue.

Don’t be surprised that as you begin to comfortably settle into your life of faith that God might begin leading into some type of sacrifice. Rejoice as James says in James 1:2! Your faith is going to be tested and your reward is sure.

Prayer: Lord help me to hear your gentle voice and respond when you call me to take a step of faith, knowing that Your will is best.